Sutherland Springs church pantry feeds bodies and souls

Volunteers served the needy just days after 26 church members were killed.

Author:
Sue Calberg

Published:
9:41 PM CST November 10, 2017

Updated:
9:41 PM CST November 10, 2017

Like they do every Friday, volunteers showed up at the Sutherland Springs First Baptist Church food pantry to help the needy.

Most said today, more than ever, they wanted to feed bodies and souls.

The woman who directed the outreach effort for many years was one of the 26 people killed in last Sunday’s massacre at the small country church.

Lu White was remembered as a dedicated and loving, hard-working soul who always had a kind word for everyone she met.

Friday her friends said they are honoring her memory by serving as she did.

Even though the church sanctuary is still fenced off by investigators, the free-standing pantry beside the building was open for business.

Thirty minutes before the doors opened, hungry people started gathering outside the door of the “By His Grace” pantry.

Regular visitor Kay Adcock said “They're really great and they're always here for everybody and Lu, she was a big part of this. She really loved helping people and being here every week and we're going to miss her a lot.”

Adcock said even though her friend is gone, she believes White’s spirit will remain.

“Her spirit will always be here and I think that’s really important. People need to come and mourn and show how much we're going to miss her.”

Beatrice Rivas said she is part of a ministry team in the nearby town of Pandora. She called White a prayer warrior and an inspiration to the community.

“Now more than ever we have to be more strong in faith, and that's what's going to keep us going so I'm happy to be here today to give my condolences to all the families,” Rivas said.

Judy Green, who helped organize the event after White’s loss, said she found joy in spending time with friends of faith.

“Mostly to see their eyes and their expressions and the hugs. Hugs are wonderful and I need it and I'll receive it,” Green said with a gentle laugh.

Praying over the group, Judy’s husband Rod Green implored “We're going to continue and do your work even bigger and better in memory of those that have gone before us."